Roof Rack Lights

[Maxstealth04]

Do you need to use a switch that can handle 400W since each light is 100W a piece, or one that can handle 100W for all 4?

 

[Ronin8002]

Do you need to use a switch that can handle 400W since each light is 100W a piece, or one that can handle 100W for all 4?

Neither. you don't want that kind of power going into your cab on a switch circuit. You should use 2 30-40amp relays hooked up to the switch and the lights, similar to the diagram in post #2 of this thread:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=331149&highlight=offroad+lights+relays

 

[Maxstealth04]

what size switch or relays are needed? I see what you are talking about now. I am redoing my whole interior so I need to figure out the space needed for when I make my Rack and lights.

 

[Ronin8002]

For my 4 100W lights I used 2 relays rated at 30-40A, and I believe a 30A switch (just what I had on hand).

Make sure you fuse the wire coming from the battery to the switch.

might have an extra switch and relays laying around if you want them, but you should be able to find everything at your local auto parts store.

 

[Ronin8002]

oh and I put the relays under the hood, mounted to the sheet metal next to the battery. Haven't had any problems with that spot even driving thru deep water.

 

[Maxstealth04]

kk. cause i plan on 4 on the push bar and 4 on each side of the roof rack.

 

[Ronin8002]

kk. cause i plan on 4 on the push bar and 4 on each side of the roof rack.

so 12 lights total then? holy candlepower batman, lol. Can't wait to see it!

If each set of 4 is on separate switches then you can just use a pair of relays and 1 switch for each set of 4.

 

[College Student]

just a thought but wouldn't that overload the relays
wouldnt it be best to wire two lights per relay and then wire it so three of the six relays is set to fire the other relay....switch turns on one relay wired to turn on lights and next relay...(does that seem right?)

 

[Ronin8002]

As long as he has only 2 lights on each relay, and each pair of relays is connected together like in the diagram (so four lights per pair of relays) he won't have issues. Obviously wire size and the current rating of the relays is critical also.

There might be a way to set it up so 1 switch controls everything, but I was figuring he'd want to control each set of 4 lights independently.